Thyroglossal Cysts

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Presentation

TGCs usually present as fluctuant swellings in the midline of the neck along the line of thyroid descent. NB: it is important to note that the cyst moves upwards when the patient protrudes the tongue. This occurs because it is attached to the thyroglossal tract which attaches to the larynx by the peritracheal fascia. Other features:

The differential diagnosis of a lump in the neck requires knowledge of anatomy and the possible pathological swellings which can arise. Note that some of those listed are more likely to lie laterally in the neck (rather than in the midline of the thyroid descent).

The diagnosis can usually be made from the history and a careful neck and physical examination. Always palpate the thyroid gland during the physical examination. If the gland cannot be palpated, ultrasonography, thyroid scanning or CT scanning may be helpful. Diagnosis can usually be achieved on an outpatient basis.

TFTs are performed. However, ectopic thyroid gland cannot be ruled out even in the presence of normal TSH levels and a clinically euthyroid history. Therefore, ultrasonography, CT scanning, thyroid scanning or MRI may be needed to identify a normal thyroid gland.

Ultrasound is the most commonly used investigation. Ultrasound and CT scanning are the investigations of first choice:

Ultrasound can distinguish solid from cystic components.

CT scanning shows the capsular enhancement.

A fistulogram may show the course of the tract.

Thyroid scanning may be used to demonstrate any functioning ectopic thyroid. Ectopic thyroid tissue may accompany TGCs in their location along the line of embryological thyroid descent. This can also be used to demonstrate normal thyroid position and function before removal of any thyroid tissue which may accompany the cyst.

Direct laryngoscopy with hypopharyngoscopy and barium swallow are often useful with a history of recurrent lateral neck abscess when a branchial cleft anomaly with an internal sinus opening is suspected.

Associated diseases

Thyroid disease (particularly myxoedema and, rarely, carcinoma).

Recurrent infections of thyroglossal fistula.

Other thyroglossal duct disorders (including ectopic thyroid).

Management

TGCs should be surgically removed. This is because:

Surgery provides a pathological diagnosis.

Infection can cause acute pain and other complications (including airway obstruction and dysphagia).

The surgical treatment of choice is Sistrunk's operation, in which an en block resection of the sinus tract and the midportion of the hyoid bone is performed.[4]Endoscopic surgery is occasionally used, particularly when the appearance of the scar is of concern.[13]

Complications

Before operation, recurrent inflammation associated with infection of a TGC is not uncommon. When infection is present, the cyst may enlarge and an abscess may form. Spontaneous rupture with secondary sinus tract formation can also occur. This can lead to worse outcomes following surgery.

Complications after surgery include infection, haematoma and recurrence. Note that:

Recurrence of a TGC is associated with poor technique, especially failure to follow the surgical principles described by Sistrunk.

Rates of recurrence are increased when a TGC is ruptured during dissection.

Previous infection, prior incision and drainage procedures and adherence of the cyst to the skin all are associated with an increased rate of rupture with dissection.

Wound infections can also occur when the cyst is ruptured or when the pharynx is entered.

Prognosis

The recurrence rate associated with simple excision of a TGC is approximately 50%. The recurrence rate with a formal Sistrunk's procedure is approximately 6%.

Recurrence can be reduced by a modification of Sistrunk's method which involves central neck dissection.[4]

Article Information

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